Mkhitaryan joined Arsenal from Manchester United in a swap deal with Alexis Sanchez, while Aubameyang signed for a club-record fee on deadline day in January.

The Gunners duo became very close friends at Borussia Dortmund, with Aubameyang recently revealing that he spoke to the Armenian before deciding to join Arsene Wenger’s side.

Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang were in dialogue over moves to Arsenal

And now the former United midfielder has confirmed Aubameyang’s recent revelation, telling Arsenal Player: ‘I won’t mention all the details, because it’s not fair.

‘But yes when I signed for Arsenal I’ve been in touch with him saying, ‘So the first step is done, now we’re waiting for the second one’.’

Aubameyang and Mkhitaryan have played two times together for Arsenal so far, helping to thrash Everton before playing in the defeat to rivals Tottenham.

And Mkhitaryan has admitted that he is very excited to link up with the Gabon striker once again after enjoying a brilliant partnership together at Dortmund.

Arsenal midfielder Mkhitaryan has admitted he loves playing with the Gabon striker

He added: ‘I thought it could only be in a dream that we could join another club other than Dortmund but I am very happy for that. I know him very well, he is one of my best friends and one of the the best team-mates I have ever had.

‘I am very happy to have him here and I think all the fans are happy to see him in an Arsenal shirt. What can I say? I love playing with him.’

Mkhitaryan could feature for Arsenal in their Europa League clash with Ostersunds on Thursday night but Aubameyang is unavailable.